Becoming an LPN in Maine

PLEASE NOTE: There are currently no approved LPN educational programs.

With careers in healthcare gaining traction as reliable and rewarding pathways, Maine LPNs are reaping the benefits. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting a favorable career outlook for LPNs at nearly 12% growth through 2026, there’s never been a better time to consider a career as an LPN. In Maine alone, LPNs earn an average hourly wage of $21.00, which works out to an average annual salary of $43,680.

Details on Maine LPN Schools & Classes

According to the Maine Board of Nursing, there are currently no approved LPN programs in state. However, there are a multitude of LPN programs available throughout the United States, so options are still available. Neighboring states like New Hampshire offer programs for those in the Maine area looking to become LPNs. Most LPN programs take between one and two years to complete, depending on part-time or full-time attendance.

While enrolled in an LPN program, students take a mix of nursing-based courses and labs, which course titles such as:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Foundations of Nursing
  • Medical Terminology
  • Medical-Surgical Nursing
  • Maternal-Child Nursing
  • Geriatric Nursing

Accreditation

Those searching for a quality LPN program in the Unites States should ensure that one they choose is properly accredited. These programs are held to rigorous academic standards. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is a main, national accrediting body to keep an eye out for, but regional accreditations may also be available. Prospective students can also check with the state board of nursing in their chosen state to find an approved LPN program.

Admission Requirements

Admissions requirements may vary slightly depending on state and type of school chosen, but generally consist of the following:

  • Must be a high school graduate or have a GED
  • Must submit official transcripts
  • Must complete any and all prerequisite courses
  • Must write a statement of intent
  • Must pass a criminal background check

Tuition and Costs

LPN program costs can fluctuate wildly depending on factors like state/location, type of school, and more. Students will generally need to cover the costs of tuition, mandatory fees, and course materials such as textbooks and supplies. Indirect costs may include room and board, transportation costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. For those with financial difficulty, most schools have a financial aid department where students can learn about loans, scholarships, and other ways to pay for their LPN program.

Maine LPN Licensing Requirements

Maine requires the LPN hopeful to attend a state-approved school and pass the NCLEX exam to apply for licensing as an LPN.

The graduate should keep in mind that certain physical requirements may come into play in the daily routine of an LPN, including moving machinery, lifting patients, and extended periods of standing.

In order to receive state licensure, the applicant must submit a notarized application to the state, including:

  • Headshot (passport-style) photograph less than 2 years old.
  • Official transcript from state-approved nursing program.

Maine LPN licenses expire every 2 years.

NCLEX Exam Information

Upon graduating from an LPN program, students are required to sit for and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to gain licensure. This exam covers many nursing topics and consists of around 100 or more questions. A detailed overview on the NCLEX-PN exam can be found here. Additionally, students can take our practice exam to study and prepare for the real test.

LPN Reciprocity and eNLC

As part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Maine allows nurses from other compact states to practice without additional licensing. The nurse must select a primary state of residence, but can work in multiple NLC states. As of January 2018, the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) will be in effect, which identifies 11 uniform licensure requirements. LPNs living and working outside of the compact area can still apply for a Maine license by providing the required notarized application for endorsement and the following:

  • Official transcript from state-approved nursing program.
  • Proof of having passed the NCLEX.
  • Proof and verification of licensure for another state comparable to Maine.
  • Headshot (passport-style) photograph that’s no more than 2 years old.

For those educated abroad, looking to receive a license from the state of Maine, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

  • Completion of an approved 4-year high school course of study or equivalent.
  • Completion of approved nursing program.
  • Duly licensed by examination in applicant’s country, having passed the NCLEX examination.
  • Possess a US social security number.
  • Request and submit official transcripts from approved nursing program, showing theory and clinical experience.
  • Submit verification of original licensure.

Learn more about Maine licensure by endorsement/reciprocity here: http://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing/licensing/endorsement.html

LPN Salary in Maine By Area

The table below lists career information organized by the BLS for licensed practical nurses in Maine. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.

AreaTotal EmploymentAverage Hourly WageAverage Annual Salary
Portland, South Portland380$21.53$44,780
Lewiston, Auburn160$20.28$42,180
Bangor150$21.13$43,950

For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our Maine LPN to RN/BSN programs page.

Additional ME Nursing Resources